Apparatus and methods for the analysis of trace constituents in gases

(19)

(11)

EP 0 819 937 A3

(12)	EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(88)	Date of publication A3:
	29.03.2000 Bulletin 2000/13

(43)	Date of publication A2:
	21.01.1998 Bulletin 1998/04

(21)	Application number: 97305409.1

(22)	Date of filing: 18.07.1997

(51)	International Patent Classification (IPC)⁷: G01N 33/00, G01N 33/497, G01N 33/02, H01J 49/26, H01J 49/04

(84)	Designated Contracting States:
	AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE
	Designated Extension States:
	AL LT LV RO SI

(30)

Priority:

19.07.1996 GB 9615303
19.07.1996 GB 9615304

(71)	Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM
	Nottingham NG7 2RD (GB)

(72)	Inventors:
	Linforth, Robert Steven Timothy Kegworth, Derbyshire DE74 2FG (GB) Taylor, Andrew John Kegworth, Derbyshire DE74 2FG (GB)

(74)	Representative: Tomlinson, Kerry John
	Frank B. Dehn & Co., European Patent Attorneys, 179 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4EL London EC4V 4EL (GB)

(54)	Apparatus and methods for the analysis of trace constituents in gases

(57) The invention comprises a novel sample introduction system which incorporates a venturi pump (6) to convey a sample gas to an analytical instrument (1) at atmospheric pressure. An APCI, ICP or MIP mass spectrometer is preferred as the analytical instrument (1). Using such an inlet with an APCI mass spectrometer, the real-time analysis of trace materials present in breath is facilitated, enabling, for example, the release of compounds responsible for aroma and taste to be analysed during eating and drinking. The invention can also be used for headspace analysis and for monitoring the release of fragrances from skin or clothing.

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